Regional

2:33 pm

Sun August 8, 2010

Saving Open Space In New Mexico

New Mexico – New Mexico now has a set of rules aimed at conserving the state's open spaces.

The Natural Heritage Conservation Act was approved by legislators and signed into by Gov. Bill Richardson earlier this year to see to it that the state's natural heritage and customs will be protected through conservation and agricultural easements and projects aimed at land and water restoration.

The state just last week adopted the rules to administer the act.

One problem a fund that was created to finance the conservation work remains empty.

Despite the prospects of another slim budget year, state officials and conservationists are hopeful the success of several proposed projects funded by a separate $5 million appropriation will help persuade legislators to put money in the conservation fund.